If you’ve ever wondered, “what is bone broth?” here’s a clear, friendly explanation. Bone broth isn’t a passing trend — it’s a traditional preparation that has been called stock or soup for generations. In recent years the term “bone broth” gained popularity, but the practice itself has long roots and enduring value.
A Brief History of Bone Broth
Before industrial food systems, nothing edible was wasted. Bones were considered an important source of nutrition and were simmered to extract protein, healthy fats, collagen, and essential minerals. Broths and stocks have been used for nourishment and healing across cultures and throughout culinary history, serving as both everyday sustenance and home remedies.
My Bone Broth Story
Growing up, my Bubby — born in the late 1800s — always had a pot of chicken soup simmering on the stove. We called it “Jewish Penicillin” and she served it daily and whenever someone felt under the weather. Today many people call that same nourishing preparation bone broth. I continue the tradition now, preparing a fresh batch weekly and sometimes keeping ready-made options on hand for convenience.
I often use store-bought bone broth to save freezer space and speed up meal prep. To keep things interesting, I rotate a variety of recipes that include functional foods and spices. Below are seven simple sipping recipes — one for each day of the week — that work with either chicken or beef bone broth.
1. Salt + Pepper
This minimalist option is great on the go and highlights the pure flavor of the broth. Salt balances electrolytes and enhances taste while black pepper can improve nutrient absorption. The combination is simple, comforting, and lets the natural goodness of the broth shine.
Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) container bone broth
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
Pinch ground black pepper
Method: In a saucepan, bring the broth, salt, and pepper to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes. Serve piping hot. If your broth is already seasoned, you can sip it as is.
2. Ginger + Turmeric
Ginger and turmeric add warmth and anti-inflammatory support. Ginger soothes digestion and circulation, while turmeric acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and supports overall detoxification. Together they create a classic, synergistic pairing often used in traditional systems like Ayurveda.
Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) container bone broth
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
1 teaspoon minced fresh turmeric (or ½ teaspoon ground turmeric)
Method: Simmer the broth with salt, ginger, and turmeric for 5 minutes. Strain if you used fresh roots, pour into a mug, and sip warm.
3. Thyme + Oregano
This “Cold and Flu Fighter” combines thyme and oregano, two herbs with long traditions of respiratory and antimicrobial use. Thyme supports bronchial health and respiratory comfort, while oregano offers potent antimicrobial and antispasmodic properties. This blend is soothing and supportive when you feel run down.
Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) container bone broth
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
5 sprigs fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
5 sprigs fresh oregano (or ¼ teaspoon dried oregano)
Method: Bring broth, salt, thyme, and oregano to a boil, then reduce and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain into a mug and breathe easier with every sip.
4. Black Cumin + Coriander
Black cumin and coriander are a digestive-supporting duo. Black cumin adds warmth and immune support, while coriander (the seed of the cilantro plant) soothes and balances digestive acidity. Together they create a comforting, gut-friendly broth.
Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) container bone broth
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon black cumin seed (or ¼ teaspoon ground)
½ teaspoon coriander seed (or ¼ teaspoon ground)
Method: Simmer broth with salt, cumin, and coriander for 5 minutes. Strain and enjoy hot for digestive comfort.
5. Kale + Fenugreek
This green-forward option blends the nutrient density of kale with the soothing properties of fenugreek. Fenugreek supports digestion and helps balance certain body types in Ayurveda, making it a nice companion for kale, which can be strong-tasting and sometimes stimulating.
Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) container bone broth
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
⅛ teaspoon ground fenugreek
1 ounce fresh kale, chopped
Method: Simmer the broth, salt, fenugreek, and kale for 5 minutes. Transfer to a blender and purée until smooth and fully green. Pour into a mug and savor the leafy, nourishing broth.
6. Parsley + Cilantro
This bright, herbaceous combination lends an Asian-inspired note. Cilantro is known for supporting gentle detox pathways, while parsley provides vitamins and immune-supporting nutrients. Together they create a fresh, revitalizing sip.
Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) container bone broth
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, minced
Method: Bring the broth and herbs to a simmer for 5 minutes. Strain if you prefer a clearer cup, or leave the herbs in for extra texture and nutrients. Enjoy warm.
7. Jalapeno + Scallion
For those who like a little heat, jalapeno and scallion add spice and brightness. Capsaicin in peppers can support circulation and offer symptomatic relief for headaches and congestion, while scallion contributes mild onion flavor and nutrients.
Ingredients:
1 (16 ounce) container bone broth
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon minced jalapeno
1 teaspoon minced scallion, sliced
Method: Simmer the broth with salt, jalapeno, and scallion for 5 minutes. Strain if desired, then sip slowly to enjoy the warming, spicy flavor.
I’ve Been Using Food as Medicine Since 1993
I’ve worked in the health field since 1993 and have used food and traditional herbal wisdom to support wellbeing for decades. Combining culinary tradition with herbal and Ayurvedic principles has guided my approach to nourishing my family and sharing practical recipes. These simple bone broth sips are meant to be easy, adaptable, and healing.
I drink bone broth daily because it supports gut health and overall strength. Making your own broth is straightforward, or you can keep a prepared option on hand for convenience. Choose the flavors that appeal to you and enjoy a warm, nourishing cup any day of the week.